Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes (Printable Version)

Tall, airy Japanese soufflé pancakes with whipped cream, berries, and syrup for a sumptuous breakfast or brunch treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pancake Batter

01 - 2 large eggs
02 - 2 tablespoons whole milk
03 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
05 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour (fluffed, spooned, and leveled)
06 - ¼ teaspoon baking powder
07 - ½ teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
08 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
09 - Neutral oil for cooking (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)

→ Sweetened Whipped Cream

10 - ½ cup cold heavy cream
11 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
12 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Garnish

13 - Assorted fresh berries
14 - Powdered sugar
15 - Maple syrup

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Separate the eggs, placing the whites and yolks in separate bowls. To the yolks, add milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, then whisk until smooth. Sift in flour and baking powder, and whisk gently until fully incorporated.
02 - Add white vinegar or lemon juice to the egg whites and beat with a hand mixer at medium speed until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar in increments while increasing speed to medium-high. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
03 - Carefully fold one-third of the meringue into the yolk mixture with a rubber spatula until no streaks remain. Gently fold in the remaining meringue, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
04 - Heat a large nonstick skillet over low heat and lightly brush with neutral oil. Wipe off any excess oil to maintain a clean cooking surface.
05 - Using a spoon, cookie scoop, or piping bag, portion batter into 2 or 3 tall mounds in the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until golden brown underneath. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until fully cooked and golden.
06 - In a chilled bowl, whisk cold heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract on low to medium-low speed until firm peaks form. Refrigerate until serving.
07 - Plate the pancakes immediately. Top with sweetened whipped cream, fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Use an electric stovetop for consistent low heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.